Nnamdi Kanu has rejected the federal government’s request to resume his trial, emphasizing the need to respect Justice Binta Nyako’s recusal from the case. Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has turned down the Nigerian federal government’s move to resume his ongoing trial. The controversy began when Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court recused herself from handling Kanu’s case on September 24, following an oral request made by Kanu himself. Kanu had explicitly expressed his loss of confidence in her ability to handle his trial fairly, prompting the judge to step aside and forward the case file to the chief judge for reassignment. However, Chief Judge John Tsoho later returned the case to Justice Nyako, insisting that Kanu must submit a formal motion through a notice before the court would consider any judicial reassignment. On December 5, the prosecution counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, addressed a letter to the Deputy Chief Registrar, requesting the court to set a date for trial resumption. In response, Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, opposed the trial resumption request in a letter dated December 9. He maintained that the previous decision by Justice Nyako to recuse herself remained valid and binding, emphasizing that no formal court order had overturned her withdrawal from the case. Ejimakor further argued that continuing with the trial under the same judge could mislead the court and violate constitutional principles, as the judge had already stepped down from the case. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Fresh Hope for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release: Deputy Speaker Speaks on Progress The ongoing detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), may soon see a resolution. Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has revealed that significant strides have been made in negotiations with key authorities to secure Kanu’s freedom. Kalu made this announcement during the recent South-East Legislators Forum meeting in Abuja, a gathering aimed at addressing challenges faced by the region. “I am working tirelessly to ensure Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is released. Very soon, it will happen. Keep us in your prayers,” Kalu stated, urging lawmakers to remain united in their pursuit of regional progress. Call for Unity in the South-East At the forum, Kalu stressed the need for unity among South-East legislators, emphasizing that internal divisions have hindered the region’s growth. He condemned activities like sit-at-home protests, arguing they are counterproductive and harmful to the people. “The power of networking surpasses money. Unity is strength. We lose significant opportunities because we fail to recognize and support one another. Ending sit-at-home protests is crucial to our collective progress,” he added. Advocating for the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Kalu also urged lawmakers to back the proposed South-East Development Commission (SEDC). The commission aims to promote reconstruction, rehabilitation, and reintegration in the region. He debunked rumors suggesting that President Bola Tinubu opposes the initiative and encouraged legislators to actively support it. Constitutional Reforms and Legislative Strategy The Deputy Speaker highlighted plans for zonal public hearings on constitutional amendments scheduled for the first half of the upcoming year. He encouraged South-East legislators to engage actively, contribute ideas, and develop a unified legislative agenda. “I commend you for seeking exposure by engaging at the federal level. This experience will enhance your legislative activities and equip you with better knowledge,” Kalu said. Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention: A Regional and International Concern Since his arrest in Kenya and subsequent extradition to Nigeria in June 2021, Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). His detention on treason charges has sparked widespread international criticism. Many stakeholders have called for his release, arguing that his continued imprisonment exacerbates tensions in the South-East. Kalu called on legislators to leverage federal policies to address regional challenges while remaining steadfast in advocating for Kanu’s release. “United efforts are crucial for overcoming the region’s difficulties and ensuring the welfare of our communities,” he concluded. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Igala people of Kogi East have firmly rejected their inclusion in the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) proposed “United States of Biafra.” Speaking through the Igala Youth Council, they criticized IPOB for including their nation without consultation or consent. During an emergency meeting held on December 1, 2024, the Igala Youth Council condemned IPOB’s actions, describing the plan for a 40-state Biafran nation as baseless and laughable. The group’s National Publicity Secretary, Michael Achor Joshua, released a statement rejecting the Igala nation’s association with IPOB’s secessionist agenda. Igala’s Stance on IPOB’s Agenda Joshua clarified that the Igala nation was neither informed nor involved in any discussions about IPOB’s proposal. He expressed disapproval of being linked to what he called IPOB‘s “madness,” highlighting that the Igala people are committed to achieving good governance within Nigeria, not breaking away from it. “We demand development and unity within Nigeria, not to be drawn into controversial and disruptive agendas,” Joshua stated. IPOB’s Controversial Methods IPOB’s actions, including their enforcement of the weekly “sit-at-home” orders, have drawn criticism for negatively impacting the economy and daily life in the Southeast. While some sympathize with IPOB’s call for self-determination, others view their methods as a direct threat to Nigeria’s national unity. A Call for Unity Joshua urged all Igala citizens to disregard IPOB’s claims and remain focused on their lawful activities. “The Igala nation stands for one united Nigeria and will not be part of any divisive movement,” he concluded.
